Interview with Sean Astin at Nickel City Con

Sean Astin Talks SAG-AFTRA, AI, Screeners, And The Goonies Sequel With Rocking With Jam Man

Remzi “Jam Man” Yates caught up with Sean Astin live at Nickel City Con for a fast but packed interview covering everything from SAG-AFTRA and artificial intelligence to Buffalo wings, fan conventions, and the long-rumored Goonies sequel.

Astin, known for iconic roles in The Goonies, Rudy, The Lord of the Rings, and Stranger Things, opened up about his new role as President of SAG-AFTRA and the major issues actors are facing in Hollywood right now.

When asked about the biggest fight actors are facing, Astin pointed to the downturn in the entertainment industry and how many working performers have struggled to find work. He explained that when actors are not working, it can also affect whether they qualify for healthcare. Astin also talked about the push for tax incentives in places like California and New York to bring more film and television jobs back.

Jam Man also asked Astin about AI, streaming, and whether actors are in more danger than ever. Astin said he tries to avoid extreme characterizations, but admitted artificial intelligence is impacting every industry. For actors, he said the issue is especially serious because their faces, voices, image, and likeness can now be replicated with technology.

Astin also spoke about the personal meaning behind his SAG-AFTRA leadership role. His mother, legendary actress Patty Duke, was also president of the Screen Actors Guild. Astin said he feels like he is continuing her legacy, especially when it comes to service, mental health advocacy, and standing up for performers.

One of the coolest moments came when Jam Man asked Astin if playing characters like Samwise Gamgee, Rudy, and Mikey Walsh helped prepare him for leadership. Astin said those roles absolutely did, explaining that he is always fighting for things, dreaming big, facing obstacles, and trying to live up to the values those characters represent.

Jam Man also asked Astin if he could point young media creators in the right direction for screeners. Astin laughed and said it was a clever question, then explained that screeners are changing, with physical copies being phased out and digital links becoming more common.

Of course, the interview had to get into The Goonies. Astin said he has been hearing about The Goonies a lot lately, even though the movie came out more than 40 years ago. When asked if a sequel is ever really happening or if Hollywood is just going to keep teasing fans, Astin gave an honest answer: right now, it feels like they may keep teasing it.

Astin said the fans have already done their part, and if the audience wants a Goonies sequel, Hollywood should pay attention. But he also explained that the reason it has not happened yet is because Steven Spielberg wants it to have the right magic — and that kind of magic is hard to define.

When asked what a sequel should look like, Astin said it should probably be a mix of the original cast and a new generation, though as the cast gets older, he feels it may need to focus more on the kids with the original Goonies involved in a smaller way.

Astin also said he does trust Hollywood with The Goonies if the project is put in the hands of people who truly love the original. He admitted any sequel could fail, but said if it does, fans can always go back and watch the original.

The interview ended with Jam Man’s signature death row meal question. Astin gave a thoughtful answer, saying he probably would not want anything too special because that would make the moment feel even heavier.

From SAG-AFTRA and AI to screeners, Buffalo wings, Patty Duke, and The Goonies sequel, Sean Astin gave Rocking With Jam Man a real, funny, and thoughtful interview live from Nickel City Con.

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SAG-AFTRA: Sean Astin — President, 2025–Current